Competition winners shine bright

If you’re looking for the best Christmas lights in town, check out the winners of the 2018 Safe City Christmas Lights Competition.

The winners were announced on Saturday 8 December at the City’s newest festive celebration Jingle All the Way.

Philip Clegg, of 39 Westfield Street, Maddington, won $500 for the Best Private Residence, thanks to his display featuring a gingerbread house, Santa’s sleigh, photo booth, window displays and handmade interactive decorations. Mr Clegg has also arranged a visit from Santa on 12 December.

Three runners up in the Best Private Residence category were:

David and Janine Mayfield – 72 Forest Crescent Thornlie

Kathy Sharp – 11 Consulate Court Thornlie

Isis Khaliq – 12 Meyrick Way Langford

Residents in Consulate Court, Thornlie, worked together to share in the $1,000 prize for Best Decorated Street. Their interactive display benefits Cystic Fibrosis WA and is well-known for its lively atmosphere, thanks in part to the homeowners being outside talking to visitors.

For the first time since the competition’s inception, 11 houses entered the First Time Entrant category Safe City Christmas Lights Competition, resulting in stiff competition. Troy Sutherland, of 5 Schooner Street in Canning Vale, took out the prize for the category.

City of Gosnells Mayor Glenn Dewhurst congratulated the winners, who were selected based on originality, use of colour, interaction with the community, layout and design, and overall effort.

“The Safe City Christmas Lights Competition encourages community members to share the spirit of Christmas, while getting to know their neighbours and their local neighbourhood,” he said.

“Thanks must go to everyone who entered the competition this year, and to all those who visit their displays, for spreading joy among our community.”

Mayor Dewhurst also encouraged visitors to Christmas light displays to be mindful of neighbours and park courteously. Drivers should take extra care near the displays and watch for pedestrians.

The competition was sponsored by Examiner Newspapers and Bendigo Bank. This year’s judges included Michelle Lennox from Bendigo Bank, Aaron Van Rongen from Examiner Newspapers and Councillors Carey-Ann Brett and Serena Williamson.

Visit the City’s website to view a full list of entrants and locations around the City.